Abstract

Substance Use Disorders: Assessment and Treatment is a summary of everything a therapist should know about substance abuse in one easy-to-read comprehensive book. The book begins with a discussion of the pharmacology of specific drug classes (opioids, hallucinogens, etc.) and the epidemiology of abuse. It then presents psychological theories of substance abuse, the initiation and progression of substance abuse disorders, issues of prevention and early intervention, and screening and assessment for substance abuse (including specific tests for assessment) and discusses in detail the various treatment methodologies available. Two final chapters explore issues relevant to special populations and legal and ethical considerations, regarding issues such as confidentiality and coerced treatment.

• A synthesis of the current research and clinical literature
• Includes strengths and weaknesses of commonly used psychometric assessment measures
• Presentation and review of a complete Psychosocial/Substance Use Assessment form
• Discussion of treatment settings and criteria for placement decisions
• Discussion of treatment alternatives and effectiveness of major pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches
• Discussion of factors leading to Relapse, and components of Relapse Prevention programs

"...the information is easy to read and despite its diminutive size offers a comprehensive summary of the fundamental knowledge necessary to effectively understand psyoactive substance use disorders. The two authors, Dodgen & Shea, have managed to organise a large amount of information about psychoactive substance use disorders into a compact cohesive format... it has been directed from a clinical perspective that makes the information contained readily applicable to contemporary practice. I would definitely recommend this book as a basic text for clinicians whether or not working in the substance use field. If... you want a clear concise overview of salient issues for understanding psychoactive substance use disorders this book fits the bill." --DRUG AND ALCOHOL REVIEW
Prepublication Praise
"An excellent resource that provides up-to-date information on alcohol and other psychoactive substance use disorders. It illuminates the facts and substantiates them with a myriad of references. This text is useful not only for clinicians working in the field of addictions but for all therapists who will encounter individuals with such a problem. Should be considered essential reading for various additional audiences such as students in graduate or nursing schools. It is well organized and very comprehensive." --RAYMOND F. HANBURY, JR., Ph.D., C.A.S.; Past President, Division 50 (Addictions), American Psychological Association; International Advisory Board, American Academy of Health Care Providers in the Addictive Disorders; President, New Jersey Psychological Association